AZA2015 to focus on shaping future of cities
The South African Institute for Architects (SAIA) will be hosting this year's Architecture ZA 2015 (AZA2015) conference in collaboration with the Gauteng Institute for Architecture (Gifa) and the University of Johannesburg (UJ).
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AZA2015 will take place from 24-26 September 2015 at The Sheds@1Fox in Newtown, Johannesburg.
This year's multi-faceted programme, themed Future City, brings together leading innovators and multi-disciplinary built environment practitioners from around the globe. Architects, urban planners and designers at all levels are invited to attend and participate in this broader, structured and more inclusive three-day event. Film festivals focused on design and engaging city tours are just some of the highlights attendees can also look forward to.
South African architects and designers will share experiences and perspectives with cutting-edge international practices, exploring ways to successfully negotiate the rapidly changing South African urban landscape.
Open debates
Attendees will have the opportunity to join open debates on key issues relating to cities and urban culture's role and importance in shaping our modern world. The many challenges future cities face, particularly in South Africa, will also be discussed with ideas about how these can be overcome.
"The second decade of the 21st century heralds a dramatic new era where, for the first time, the majority of the world's population will live in cities," says Daniel Silke, political analyst and invited speaker. "This landmark trend towards almost unstoppable urbanisation will establish a new power relationship between the state and the city, which will drive business and politics in the future. It will change the way in which humans live, interact and survive in a precarious yet challenging environment," Silke notes.
"Architecture has a critical role to play in shaping our cities' future. Architects are agents for social change and transformation as they have the power to create better lives through living spaces for all. Architects and designers are vital in providing liveable solutions for current and future generations," says Daniel van der Merwe, president of Gifa.
"The depth of knowledge to be shared, as well as the variety, vibrancy and energy of the festival, will make AZA2015 an event to enjoy and remember. We encourage all architects and designers to diarise these events and leverage off the wealth of knowledge," says Van der Merwe.
